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“O come, divine Messiah! The world in silence waits the day when hope shall sing its triumph and sadness flee away” – “O Come Divine Messiah” by Simon-Joseph Pellegrin

Dear Beloved St. Mark’s Faith Family,

As we enter these seasons of Advent and Christmas, I pray that these words bring you encouragement and peace.

During the season of Advent, we find ourselves in a season of waiting—a concept that may feel unfamiliar in our fast-paced world. In today’s age of instant gratification, waiting can seem passive, frustrating, or even unnecessary. Yet, Advent reminds us that waiting is central to the story of Jesus’ birth and our faith. Just as the people of God waited longingly for the Messiah, we too are called to wait—expectantly, patiently, and with open hearts.

But what are we waiting for? We are waiting for Christ to enter our lives in deeper and fuller ways, for the light of God’s love to break into our darkness, and for hope to blossom where we may feel despair. This season awakens us to the longings of our hearts—the longing for peace, for justice, and for reconciliation. We wait for the promise of God’s future to take root in our lives.

In this time of waiting, we are also called to be sources of hope for others. 2024 has been a difficult year for many of us here at St. Mark’s and we know that there are people amongst us who are struggling or grieving this season, and your presence, your prayers, or even a simple greeting could be a light for them in their darkness. As we celebrate the hope of Advent, we are reminded of Bishop Desmond Tutu’s words: "Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness." You can be that light for someone who has lost sight of it.

The Christmas season is full of joy, hope, love, and peace, though at times, we may find ourselves searching for it amidst the hustle and bustle. Whether through music concerts, worship services, or simply gathering with loved ones, there are many ways to nurture the Christmas spirit. Often, we need to be intentional about seeking out these spiritual encounters with God, and thankfully, they are all around us, waiting to be discovered. This Christmas, let us embrace the waiting, trusting that God is at work even in the unseen moments.

My prayer for you this season is that you will encounter the Holy in new and unexpected ways. May you find peace, hope, joy, and love in your worship, in your gatherings, and in the quiet moments of reflection. And may the longing of your heart lead you closer to the love of God, revealed to us in the Christ child.

In light of the Canada Post Strike we are unable to send the Christmas Letters to individual homes.  However, if you would like to make a particular Christmas gift in keeping with your financial ability, and out of gratitude for all of God’s blessings. Feel free to leave a contribution at our parish office, in the mail box close to the gate, or during a worship service.

My friends, wishing you a blessed Advent and Christmas filled with the hope, peace, joy, and love that Christ graciously bestows upon us and along with my family, we wish you peace, comfort, and the ability to set aside Holy-time throughout this Holiday.

Glory to God in the Highest!

Merry Christmas!

Reverend Sandra Hounsell-Drover

Incumbent